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scripture page
Psalm 91 (NIV)
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Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
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I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.”
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Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.
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He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.
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You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day,
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nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.
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A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.
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You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked.
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If you say, “The LORD is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling,
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no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent.
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For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways;
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they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.
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You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.
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“Because he loves me,” says the LORD, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.
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He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him.
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With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”
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™
April 2020
contents on the cover: National Donate Life Month The Living Legacy Foundation of Maryland Sierr’a Dixon (Her Daughter Sienna A Donor)
www.thellf.org
Special Feature pgs 8-13 - April is National Donate Life Month, and The Living Legacy Foundation of Maryland shares with us the beautiful story of Sierr’a Dixon and her daughter Sienna, Pay It Forward: Sierr’a Dixon’s story of Love, Kindness, and her daughter’s donation. The Living Legacy Foundation of Maryland also shares a Q&A with donor recipient Maddy Parrott and a ‘Did You Know?’ with Latrice Price, Community Outreach Coordinator of The Living Legacy Foundation of Maryland.
Healthy Soul 14 PROPHETICALLY SPEAKING
Estaban Vargas
House Fires
18 MONTHLY MANNA
Minister Carenda Deonne
The Beauty and the Beast of Disappointment
16 WOMAN’S PERSPECTIVE
20 TRINKETS TO TRIUMPH
Rhoda Turner
Tracey George
April Flowers Bring May Flowers
Arise Anointed And Ablaze
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Healthy Mind 19 TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH
Dr. Carla J. Debnam, (Founder, Renaissance Christian Counseling Center)
Surviving Life’s Storms
In Every Issue Scripture Page.................................. 2, 26
Healthy Body Contributors............................................ 6
24 BODY BASICS
22 HEALTH MATTERS
Charles & Ursula Harris
Staying Fit Through A Crisis
From the Editor....................................... 7
Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels
Coronavirus: What You Should Know
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Meet the Contributors For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Jackie Epps EDITORIAL Dr. Carla J. Debnam Min. Carenda McCray Tracey George Dr. Denyce Daniels Charles & Ursula Harris Bishop Shirley and Pastor Tim Stanfill Rhoda Turner GRAPHIC ARTIST Claire Lesesne www.JandCDesigns.com WEB ADMINISTRATOR Andre Felipe for Arts Period www.artsperiod.com
Copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Reproduction without expressed permission is prohibited.
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For more information contact 443-813-6547 • 410-370-2636 info@gracenglorymagazine.org Grace & Glory Magazine is the ideal publication for Encouragement, Empowerment and Inspiration. Follow us on facebook and twitter at: facebook.com/gracenglorymagazine twitter @gracenglorymag Check out our website at: www.gracenglorymagazine.org
6 April April2020 2020||Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 6
JACKIE EPPS is co-founder and editor of Grace & Glory Magazine. Jackie's career in communications spans over 40 years in advertising sales, program sales, media planning and television production, working in radio for 11 years and shifting to television broadcasting in 1989. She also produces the Grace & Glory show, a faith-based television program that has been on the air for 18 years. DR. CARLA DEBNAM
Dr. Carla J. Debnam is the wife of Bishop Dwayne C. Debnam and an associate minister of Morning Star Baptist Church, Woodlawn, MD. She is a National Certified Counselor (NCC) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland. She is a member of the American Counseling Association, the American Association of Christian Counselors and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Dr. Debnam has contributed to two books, Those Sisters Can Preach: 22 Pearls of Wisdom, Virtue & Hope, and 7 Ingredients To An Effective Prayer Life Series, Vol.3-5.
TRACEY NICOLE GEORGE
Tracey Nicole George is a licensed minister and ordained deacon. She is a native New Yorker residing in Maryland and married to Danny George. Tracey works with her husband managing their inventory and asset control company, George Imaging. She is the creator of Trinkets to Triumph, a Biblically-based blog and ministry, designed to edify and encourage individuals with a “trinket” of encouragement. She is a member of New Destiny Evangelistic Church.
CHARLES HARRIS
Charles Harris is the owner of Chizel It Transformation Fitness. Charles is a highly effective fitness expert with a passion for health and wellness. He is a certified fitness trainer with the America Fitness Association of America with over 20 years of experience, and a certified Yoga Teacher at YogaWorks in Pikesville, Maryland. He is the author of I’m Too Cute to Sweat, What’s Your Excuse For Not Working Out?, and It Takes 21 Days To Get Fit. He currently teaches his mega cardio workout class throughout the state of Maryland.
DR. DENYCE WATTIES-DANIELS Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels has over 25 years of experience as a clinician and nurse educator. Her areas of expertise include critical care nursing, pathophysiology, pharmacology and the use of technology in the classroom. She currently serves as faculty and the Director of the Simulation and Learning Resource Centers of the College of Health Professions at Coppin State University.
PASTOR RHODA TURNER
BISHOP SHIRLEY AND PASTOR TIM STANFILL Bishop and Pastor Stanfill are the co-creators of Kingdom Word & Worship Cathedral. They are humble servants who live by God's word in everything they do in life, love, travel and business. When they are not spending time with family they run missionary programs in Africa; share their ministry across the globe; and manage 3 businesses. They have learned how to keep their fire burning and keep God first, no matter what tests life brings them.
MIN. CARENDA DEONNE Min. Carenda was born and raised in Baltimore, MD. She received her BA degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology and is currently pursuing a Master's in Law degree from Regent University. Min. Carenda was licensed to preach in 2007 and has been teaching, preaching, and declaring God's word through the power of love ever since. Min. Carenda is also an author of three books. Her latest book, Perfect Patty Messed Up, is a 40 day devotional that confronts the disorder of perfectionism and opens the door to self forgiveness and restoration.
Rhoda possesses a spirit of humility. Her ministry style is graceful, her message is powerful and her presence is comforting. Being the 9th of 10 children, Rhoda has a deep passion for family and the wholistic development of children. She is considered by many as a mentor and mother figure. Rhoda and her husband Pastor Jason Turner, serve as senior pastors of Christian Faith Fellowship Church in Chandler, AZ.
from the editor
No doubt, if we were to look at all that has transpired; one might say it looks like everything is out of control. And yes, there is plenty to be concerned about, the devastating reality of the coronavirus pandemic; the thousands of lives lost due to Covid-19; the healthcare workers on the frontlines risking their lives to aid their fellowman; the uncertainty of the state of the economy; Wall Street falling to historic lows and the unprecedented rising unemployment. We are bombarded by discouraging 24-hour news media coverage of the coronavirus pandemic that if we look at all of these things in the natural, we would definitely think that everything is out of control. Before we get in a panic over these things and throw our hands in the air in despair, we need to remind ourselves just who we are and whose we are. We are the sons and daughters of the Most High God (Galatians 4:5-7). Our God is bigger than any of these things. He is omnipotent. He sees all and knows all. There is nothing that has happened that has taken God by surprise; nor will there be anything that will happen that God won’t know of first. As believers we live by the principals of God and His assurance that He will always be in control. Being a believer, we also live by the promises of God. God has made us some promises that let us know beyond a shadow of a doubt, “GOD is in control.” In times like these, I will agree that it is very difficult to hold on to what you believe; this crisis is one that has never been experienced before in our lifetimes. However the Bible tells us that in this world there will be trials and tribulations, but God has overcome the world (John 16:33). If we hold on and faint
Jackie Epps Editor-in-Chief
not, we will see the salvation of the Lord. We have to remember that God is able to supply all of our needs. God will take care of you, He will not forsake you. God will not fall short on His promises. If we remain faithful to Him, He will be faithful to us. The Bible tells us that, “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world, and they that dwell therein.” (Psalm 24:1) We can take comfort in knowing that we belong to the Lord, and GOD is in control! Be encouraged…..It won’t always be like this. It’s going to get better; trouble doesn’t last always. God has already worked it out. It’s going to turn around, and there will be Glory after this. God Is Still In Control. Peace & Blessings www.gracenglorymagazine.org 77 www.gracenglorymagazine.org
Pay It Forward: Sierr’a Dixon’s Story of Love, Kindness, and Her Daughter’s Donation
Sierr’a Dixon holding a picture of her daughter, Sienna, who saved and enhanced lives as a tissue donor.
Sienna Dixon-Newman was born in January 2008. After being diagnosed with severe asthma at only nine months old, she experienced multiple debilitating asthma attacks throughout her childhood. Tragically, Sienna passed away from one of these attacks when she was seven years old. Her parents made the generous and loving decision to allow their daughter to become a tissue donor. Sienna’s donations, including her heart valves and corneas, have saved and enhanced the lives of many others. Here is her mother, Sierr’a’s, story.
SIENNA’S LEGACY OF LOVE My daughter, Sienna, was a very happy child. She cared about everybody and always wanted to help no matter what it was, from something as small as helping
8 April 2020 | Grace&Glory
you carry groceries to helping the homeless. She loved to read and she loved to draw. She was in a lot of extracurricular activities including karate, taekwondo, gymnastics, Girl Scouts, hip hop, ballet, and dance. She was in a little bit of everything and loved it all; definitely a busy child! She had asthma her entire life after being diagnosed with severe asthma at only 9 months old. It was uncommon to be diagnosed so young, especially when the lungs were still developing. I had to take her to the doctor many times which resulted in several trips to the hospital. After the second asthma attack, I realized this was serious, so I immersed myself in
everything asthma-related. I started taking classes at the hospital and got CPR certified. We were hoping she’d grow out of it, like her father did with his childhood asthma. As the years passed, it did seem like she was starting to get better...which is why we were so shocked when she suddenly passed away that day in 2015. I had registered myself as a donor way back when I got my permit from the MVA at age 16. Although I didn’t know or give much thought about donation at the time, I knew I absolutely wanted to help others if it ever came down to that decision.
My favorite photo of us.
and when they told me there’s nothing that we can do, and would we like her to be a donor—it wasn’t even anything we had to think twice about. I immediately said “yes” because of my own beliefs, but it wasn’t until after that I remembered our conversation; that she had already said “yes” too.
SAYING YES A year before Sienna died, she actually pulled my wallet out of my purse and wanted to know what the heart on my She donated skin tissue, her corneas, and license meant. I told her it means I’m an her heart valves. A man here in Maryland organ donor and she asked, “what does has one cornea, a woman in another state that mean?” As a parent, that’s hard to got her other one, and a little explain to a boy has her heart valves. The six-year-old! fact that I know another child So I explained got her heart valves which it the best that saved his life is pretty much all I could, and the solace that I need because afterwards it meant another parent didn’t she said, have to bury their child and “oh, then I that’s all that matters to me. want to be an organ donor, We were HUGE Ravens fans! too.” The next year when she passed
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THE JOURNEY FORWARD Within two years of Sienna passing, I happened to turn on the TV one rough morning and by chance saw an employee from The Living Legacy Foundation (LLF) on FOX45 talking about becoming an ambassador. I recognized The LLF as the organ procurement organization that helped me through the donation process. I decided to attend the ambassador orientation they were promoting on the show and started volunteering right away.
people. I’m extremely grateful that others said “yes,” too. THE FOUNDATION In 2019, I created a foundation in Sienna’s name: the Sienna7 Foundation. Its purpose is to give away two scholarships to let two donor families go to the Transplant Games of America, which is a multi-sport festival competition held every two years. During the Games, transplant recipients and living donors compete in Olympic-style events and sometimes donor families can participate, too.
There was a reason I turned on that TV at that moment. I was having such a I knew I wanted to start something in difficult morning and was missing my baby so much, but I “...it meant another parent Sienna’s name, but I wasn’t quite sure what am so grateful for this didn’t have to bury their I wanted to do. After I to have happened. child, and that’s all that got back from my first Getting involved in this matters to me.” Games though, I knew community has been this was it. Getting to the Transplant Games an amazing thing. The relationships I’ve and back can be expensive, so I want to give forged and the people that I’ve met here other donor families the opportunity to through The LLF have become like family. Donor recipients, other donor families...you travel there and show their support. Sienna wanted to help people, so for me this is the get a new perspective from talking to them best way to do it. and they are now also my closest friends. If it weren’t for Sienna and other donors, If I had to give advice to other donor I wouldn’t have met these wonderful parents who are grieving their loss, My friends, family and I honoring Sienna I’d want them to know that there is such at The LLF Family Fun Run. tremendous support from organizations such as The LLF who will help you through so many of the difficult days and that you should take comfort in knowing your child changed people’s lives. I look at Sienna and all donors as heroes.
To save and heal lives like Sienna did, please register as an organ, eye, and tissue donor at www.thellf.org. For more information and to support Sienna7 Foundation, please visit www.sienna7foundation.org. 10 April 2020 | Grace&Glory
Maddy h
Spunky and energetic Maddy Parrott was born in 2009 with multiple heart problems. After several major surgeries, her doctors placed her on the heart transplant waiting list when she was four years old. Thanks to the generosity of her donor and their family, Maddy received her heart transplant three months later and has Maddy, center, with her other Team Maryland members. been in great health ever since. In 2018, she became the youngest member of Team Maryland, a group of transplant recipients, living donors, and donor families, and competed at the Transplant Games of America, a multi-sport Olympic-style festival competition held every two years. Thank you to Maddy and her mom, Dana, for sharing their story and excitement about the 2020 Transplant Games with us!
olding o
ne of her
medals.
: Play Ball, New Heart A Q&A with Maddy and Dana Parrott
You were so young when you received er your heart transplant. Do you rememb anything about that experience? out my "I definitely remember the tubes coming them! ugh thro ing runn d bloo chest and seeing my ly fami my all n whe is My favorite memory though nt." spla tran my and friends came to see me after
What was your favorite part about the 2018 Transplant Games? "My favorite activity was track, especially running and doing the long jump. I also played softball and competed in the Olympiad. I got three first place medals! I liked s meeting a bunch of new people, and making new friend was really awesome too."
What has your new heart allowed you to do in life that you couldn't before? "Only a month after the transplant, I was able to run all the way around a baseball field. I realized I could run much faster now! I started getting really athletic after that. I love playing basketball, cheerleading, and just being active in general."
What would you say to other young transplant recipients who might be interested in participating in the Transplant Games? "It doesn’t matter if you win or lose, it's still fun trying and competing."
To Maddy's Mom, Dana: How has Maddy's transplant and participation in sports inspired you?
"It really amazes me to see what my daughter was like before the transplant and after the transplant. From seeing an achievement as simple as running around that baseball field, it's given my daughter a new life and given me more faith in life. God is truly faithful to us and seeing her thrive after everything is just a miracle."
her three Dana Parrott, left, with children at the Games.
You too can save lives like Maddy's. Register as an organ, eye, and tissue donor at www.thellf.org. www.gracenglorymagazine.org 11
The Ultimate Gift of Compassion For Latrice Price, Community Outreach Coordinator for The Living Legacy Foundation of Maryland, promoting education and awareness for organ, eye, and tissue donation isn’t just a job—it’s a purpose. When asked for the one-word reason why she supports donation, her answer is simple: religion. “All religions believe in the act of giving,” she says. “It is the ultimate gift of compassion.” Latrice works closely with clergy and the faith community to make sure that people understand the truth about organ donation and the impact it has on recipients in need.
Did You Know? Over 3,000 men, women, and children in Maryland currently need a life-saving organ transplant. “Love your neighbor as yourself...” (Mark 12:31) “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13)
An average of 20 people die nationally each day from the lack of available organs for transplant. “Heal the sick ... Give as freely as you have received.” (Matthew 10:8)
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In eternity, we will not need our earthly bodies. One organ donor can save up to eight lives through organ donation and enhance more than 75 lives through tissue donation. “Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the LORD your God which he has given you.” (Deuteronomy 16:17)
“He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” (Revelation 21:5) “We can enter Heaven without having every part of our bodies present.” (Mark 9:47)
Every ten minutes, another name is added to the national organ transplant waiting list. “...since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other.” (John 4:11)
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prophetically speaking
House Fires by Estaban Vargas In the first five chapters of the book of Acts, we not only see the beginning of the church, but we also see the beginning of persecution against the church. After seeing a miracle performed by the apostles, the religious rulers threatened and commanded Peter and the disciples to not preach the Name of Jesus. Acts 4:18 “So they called them and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.” Today our world is witnessing a worldwide shift, a pandemic that is changing the way we live our lives. Though this is not a persecution against the church, we are feeling the effects as congregations all over are being told to stop all gatherings. I strongly believe that the gathering bans are not persecution against faith or the church but simply the world’s response in processing fear and safety. So what do we do? How does the church respond when we are instructed to stop gatherings for the sake of our neighbors? We respond like Peter responded to the religious leaders, we go home. Acts 4:23 “And being let go, they went to their own companions and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them.” The day after we were instructed by our local county to stop all gatherings, I gave an update and devotional to my church via social media. The Lord led me to share from Matthew 5:14-16, encouraging our members that they are the light of the world. As I read verse 15 my spirit leaped. It was like the Holy Spirit 14 April April2020 2020| |Grace&Glory Grace&Glory 14
was sounding an alarm from within. In verse 15, Jesus said, “Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” It was at the moment that I read the word “house” that something shifted. There was a prophetic stirring, a prophetic trumpet that was sounding, “There is coming, a light that will shine from the house.” As the church scrambles to the changes taking place, the Lord is bringing us “home”, He is bringing us to the “house” because there is a light that is about to shine! The day after I shared Matthew 5, two members of our church wanted to meet with me regarding what the Lord had been showing them. One person, a member of our prophetic team, shared with me a vision the Lord gave her. In the vision she saw homes with a flame above them, and the Lord spoke to her and said, “Do not let the fire on the altar burn out.” After we talked, another member walked in and he was burning with what the Lord had been showing him. As he was praying, the Lord showed him a movement within the homes. He saw people in their homes praying, worshipping, and teaching the Word. Both of these members had no idea what was on my heart, they had no idea the stirring I felt towards Matthew 5:15. We had no idea that we would all confirm what the Lord was saying to us. I strongly believe that this is an hour for the church in our homes to arise. The light in our house is about to shine! There is a light about to shine, “house fires” across the world. Not a persecuted church hiding from authority but a fiery church standing with authority. Husbands will shepherd their homes. Wives will turn homes into houses of prayer and intercession. Homes will be upper rooms full of the Lord’s Presence and power. We will prophesy over our family, we will lay hands on our family, we will disciple our family, and we will see a light that shines from the house that will turn the heart of the world towards our Father in heaven!
“House fires” are breaking out! Acts 4:31 “And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.” Do not be afraid church. Do not panic. This is not an hour to worry but an hour to arise. May the Prince of Peace stir your heart as He keeps you under the shadow of His wing. And do not let the fire on the altar burn out.
Esteban Vargas Esteban Vargas is a revivalist who through preaching, teaching, worship, and music, is leading individuals and communities to Jesus. Active in ministry since 2008 and officially ordained for ministry in August 2014 Esteban currently Pastors (along with his wife Ahelya) Redemption High Desert in Hesperia CA. With a strong passion for evangelism Esteban ministers through words of knowledge, prophecy, healings and miracles, encouragement and leadership with the hope of individuals coming alive in Christ Jesus. His heart is for Jesus, his heart is for family, his heart is for revival.
First Baptist Highland Park “A Bible Believing, Christ Centered & Spirit Led Congregation” 6801 Sheriff Road, Landover, Maryland 20785
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woman’s perspective
There’s a proverb that says,
"April showers bring May flowers". April, traditionally, is a rainy period which gives way to May when flowers will bloom because of the water provided to them by the April rains. No matter how hard we try to avoid the "April showers” we can't. We have to endure the season of rain because it is a part of the process. Rain is a necessary step in the process of growth. At times it is hard to grasp how a period of discomfort can provide the gateway for a period of happiness, but if you look at the cycles of life, the proverb yields truth. A pregnant woman can and will endure moments of discomfort and pain up until it’s finally time to give birth, at which point a different type of discomfort and pain kicks in, a more enduring discomfort. After several pushes and screams comes the joy of seeing this small little face. The whole experience usually brings tears of happiness. The pain (showers) is necessary for the flowers to emerge. It’s inevitable with life there will be rainy days, but what helps us get through those moments is our Heavenly Father who heals the broken hearted. The Lord is the hope that is needed in those rainy seasons that helps us to not give up before we see the flowers. In Ezekiel 34:26 (NKJV) reads, “I will make them and the places all around My hill a blessing; and I will cause showers to come down in their season; there shall be showers of blessing.” The enemy would like for you to believe that nothing good will prosper after the April showers so what was only supposed to last for a season ended up lasting a life time. Recently, I’ve gone through more “April Showers” than I would like to admit, constantly asking God "why”? I endured the rain, not quitting, not giving up, not allowing the enemy to make me think that he would win, and now I’m in the midst of receiving my May flowers. I’m on the other side of the rain where the beauty exists. No one truly knows how long the April showers will last, but what I do know is this: God is our guide and with our faith and trust in Him, we can be assured that the rain won’t last always.
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Pastor Rhoda Turner Christian Faith Fellowship Church Chandler, AZ www.cffaz.org
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monthly manna
No matter how you slice it, dice it or divide it, disappointment is never easy. I believe many of you who are reading this will agree that we all have had our fair share of disappointment. I am bold enough to say that some of you may feel you have had an unfair share. However, I am not looking to stimulate your emotions, but your mindset. So many things are going on in the world right now that disappointment is all around us. COVID-19 is causing sickness, death, loss of income, cancellation of graduation ceremonies, Sunday services, weddings and the list goes on and on. Let me ask you a question, the moment you receive, hear or experience disappointment, what are your first thoughts? Do you immediately think you are defeated, disoriented or desperate? Do you in haste pick up the phone to call someone to vent, get on your knees and pray, or just hide into a cocoon? I want to be very clear, disappointment triggers emotions that if not careful can cause you to digress. Do you understand that you can have digression in your thought process? Your mind has to be strengthened daily. Your mind has to be fed encouragement daily. Your mind has to be challenged daily. When you challenge yourself mentally, you will learn that disappointment does not have to stress you, but it can stretch you. It can stretch you to think bigger, prepare
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better, study harder, and reach higher! When disappointment hits your door step, put your thinking cap on. I am not saying to ignore your emotions, but I would rather you take a bird bath than soak in them. Can I submit something to you that you may not agree with? There are some disappointments that if you take a moment to really evaluate that situation it really was a blessing in disguise. You might see it as a disappointment now, but there are some things you will look back on and see how it has turned into your greatest advantage! Some areas in our lives in which we have experienced disappointment might take time to heal, and some disappointment might be a lifetime adjustment, but never let it consume you to the point where it robs you of your passion, and sends you spiraling emotionally out of control. Take Aim and learn how to think differently when Carenda Deonne you experience www.carendadeonne.com admin@carendadeonne.com disappointment. Live life on the promise of IMPACT!
888-473-2221 Twitter @cdpgem Facebook @carendadeonne Instagram @carendadeonne Blog @ www.carendadeonne.wordpress.com #livelifeonthepromiseofimpact
to your good health
In the last few months we have experienced major changes in our ability to travel, worship, fellowship, congregate, provide health care and more. These changes have been major for some and minor for others. Graduations, proms, conferences, weddings and memorial services have been cancelled or postponed. Schools, restaurants, malls, churches, casinos, corporations and small businesses have had to close down temporarily due to an unseen yet deadly foe. With all of these changes happening simultaneously, we have to make adjustments not only physically, but also mentally and spiritually as well. In these times we have to live the faith we profess. We have to count it all joy, walk by faith and not despair or worry. These are all biblical principles but we are seeing the need to put them into practice.
Surviving life’s struggles is not new for us but when the struggles mount up it gets overwhelming and can produce extreme worry and anxiety. The fear of the unknown can be crippling and become a problem in itself. To overcome the effects of the current climate of chaos and confusion we must get back to basics. Our faith in God must be first in our lives. We must learn to love ourselves and each other and live out The Golden Rule, which is to, “Do to others as you would like them to do to you” Luke 6:31. Not only must loving God, yourself, and others be a priority, now is the time to get serious about taking care of your health, finances and spiritual growth. Some of the fear we see is because we were caught off guard and like the five virgins who didn’t have enough oil for their lamps we have
been caught short (Matthew 25:1-3). This is not for us to be in despair or to be disappointed about but this is something we can learn from. Overcoming struggles is possible because we learn strategies from the past ones. We prayed, praised and loved our way through the last storm and that will get us through this one. Encourage yourself and be strong in the Lord. We will get through this but not without making changes. We will be in the words of Marvin Sapp, “Stronger, wiser, better.” Jesus has promised us peace and to be with us always so we are not in the struggle Dr. Carla Debnam, Founder, Renaissance Christian alone. Counseling Center
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trinkets to triumph
Arise Anointed and Ablaze
Now is the time for God’s anointing to arise and become ablaze in you. The current climate and the recent state of the country could cause alarm in some people. This is not the time to curl up and take cover but to stir up the gifts that God has placed in you (2 Timothy 1:6), arise with God’s anointing ablaze, and fulfill His will for your life no matter the current circumstance surrounding your society. You have been anointed and equipped with unique gifts and talents that were tailor-made for you to use to represent your Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in the Earth. What better way to commemorate and celebrate the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus than to awaken and set ablaze your gifts and talents that are lying dormant, or that need to level up, in you. This is the season for a revival to take place along with renewal, restoration, and recovery not only in your surroundings but in your mind, body, and spirit also. God is calling you to action. He wants you to arise and go forth on fire for Him and promises to be with you and provide everything you need to do your assignment. Whether you are a young or a seasoned saint, it is time to take authority and rev up or revive the gifts that God has blessed you with. Throughout the Bible, you can find examples and encouragement from people God called and who arose to action. When He calls you, you need to arise in His anointing and power and move forward fearlessly and on fire for Him destined to win. You have to know God’s voice when He calls you (John 20 April 2020 | Grace&Glory
10:27). When Samuel, the prophet, was a young boy, God called him and shared with him what He would do for Israel and the dread and doom that was to come to Eli’s house (1 Samuel 3:11-14) but initially Samuel didn’t know it was God who was calling him. It was Eli who helped the little lad learn the voice of God and help him give the correct response to God, “speak, your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10). Samuel’s response to arise was anointed by God, He was with him always, and everything He prophesied indeed came to pass (1 Samuel 3:19). God can call you to arise anointed and ablaze out of a situation where there seems to be no hope. Jairus’s daughter was assumed dead but Jesus assured Jairus and the others that she was not dead but asleep (Mark 5:39). Jesus took the dear little damsel’s hand and said, “talitha cumi,” which translated from Aramaic means, “little girl, I say to you, get up” (Mark 5:41). Jesus called out to the little lady and told her to arise. What seemed like a dead situation was deemed a miracle. Jesus also called Lazarus from the dead and told him, “Lazarus come forth” (John 11:43-45). Lazarus was still bound in grave clothes but He heard Jesus’s voice and got up and arose out of the tomb and Jesus said, “Loose him and let him go” (John 11:44). God has loosed you to arise anointed and ablaze to go forward in your purpose. Jesus is our ultimate example to arise anointed and ablaze. After His death, burial and resurrection, He rose early on the third day just like He said He would with all power in His hand (Matthew 28:6). Now it’s your turn to arise anointed and ablaze. Jesus called each of these Biblical examples by name. He knows your name and is calling you to arise anointed and ablaze. His anointing is within you and the fire of the Holy Ghost is ablaze within you. Like Queen Esther, you have been called to arise anointed and ablaze to take action “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14). Sing the song lyrics, “I will arise and go forth in the name of the Lord of Hosts for He has conquered every foe by His name.” Let those lyrics be your testimony and daily affirmation to encourage you to Tracey Nicole George arise anointed and ablaze. Arise! www.traceystrinketstotriumph.com
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health matters years old. Symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to the common cold or flu, but only worse. Victims may complain of fever, chills, stuffy nose, coughing, difficulty breathing, and body aches. The COVID-19 virus can rapidly develop into devastating pneumonia, leading to death. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and Maryland State Health officials are recommending individuals avoid large crowds to protect themselves from the potential spreading of the disease.
Coronavirus: What You Should Know
You’ve seen information on news broadcasts. You’ve read information on the internet. You’ve seen the posts on social media. You are keenly aware of the international pandemic of the coronavirus. The global spread of this virus has changed the way we travel, work and interact with people. This modern-day plague has given birth to phrases such as “social distancing” and “self-quarantine”. The presence of the virus in our communities has changed our perspective on how we spend our time at home. Previously we considered being at home on a Friday evening was a type of cocooning or nestling in with family. Now we consider our time at home as sheltering. The coronavirus or COVID-19 is a very strong virus that is spread by air droplets and direct contact. It is a virus that can live on surfaces of common objects such as doorknobs and tables for hours or days. Individuals most vulnerable to developing severe and devastating cases of the disease include people with weakened immune systems, on certain kinds of medications, have pre-existing conditions including hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes and people over 60 22 April 2020 | Grace&Glory
The CDC recommends the following additional precautions: • Avoid areas and events where you may encounter sick people. • See your doctor and stay inside if you develop symptoms of a cold. • Avoid traveling over 75 miles away from your home. • Cover your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of the tissue as soon as possible. • Wash your hands frequently. Wash hands when you leave your home, and when you enter and exit a building. Use warm water and plenty of soap. Lather well, hold your hands downward to rinse. • Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer between washing your hands. Use at least a “nickel size” drop of the sanitizer, rub vigorous over all surfaces of your hands and let your hands air dry. • Wash your hands with soap and water every 3rd time you use hand sanitizer. • Avoid touching your face, eyes, and nose. • Use social distancing. Leave at least 6 feet between you and another person. As believers in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, we know that we must resist the spirit of fear. We must embrace wisdom, love and a sound mind. We gain wisdom and a sound mind by receiving knowledge and accurate information. We know that the love of Christ gives us a peace that surpasses understanding in today’s world. Let’s vow to use this community crisis as an opportunity to spread the Love of God. • Make an effort to call on your neighbors, family, and friends to check on them. • Offer to donate food to a local community program. • Limit your use of technology and spend time reconnecting with your family. For more information and updates on the COVID-19 virus visit the CDC website: www.cdc.gov https://governor.maryland.gov/2020/03/12/ governor-hogan-announces-major-actions-toprotect-public-health-limit-spread-of-covid-19pandemic/ https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/
Dr. Denyce Watties Daniels Assistant Professor College of Health Professions Coppin State University DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu healthytips 025@gmail.com
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body basics MEDITATING
CHARLES & URSULA HARRIS,
Fitness Experts Chizel It Transformation Fitness Center 9006 Liberty Rd • Randallstown Md 21133 443-253-0090 • www.chizelit.com
STAYING FIT THROUGH A CRISIS!
In America, we have been experiencing one of the most devastating times in modern history with the spread of the coronavirus. It has totally changed the way we live our lives as people. All of the luxuries and the conveniences we once took for granted have literally been stripped away. Something as basic as sports, gone. Men who live for sporting events and watch ESPN are at a lost. No nightly ESPN updates is devastating for some. Children are unable to go to school. Moms are having to care for their families 24/7 without any outlet for going out. Shopping in brick and mortar stores are shutdown. Restaurants and gyms are closed. We are being forced to live simple lives again. Home cooked meals, sharing family time, checking on our elderly family and neighbors, husbands and wives spending quality time together. Men stepping up to have a positive impact in the community. How can anyone keep their sanity with such radical and sudden lifestyle changes? I’ll be the first to admit, as a local small business owner and a motivator being at home is paralyzing for me. My whole life has been based on ready, set and go! I’m pulling my hair out, and I have been bald for almost 20 years. However, we are responsible for the temple that God has blessed us with, and there are ways that we can alleviate this sudden stress and anxiety that we are all experiencing. There are two ways to keep fit at any fitness level without violating the social distancing guidelines. I would suggest Walking and Meditating during this crucial time. WALKING 1. Burn Fat and Calories Walking can help you burn calories.
Burning calories can help you maintain or lose weight. Walking is a great outlet to relieve stress and anxiety and can be done inside or outdoors. 2. Build a Strong Heart Walking at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week can reduce your risk for coronary heart disease, and your risk may reduce even more when you increase the duration or distance you walk per day. 3. Lower Your Blood Sugar Taking a short walk after eating may help lower your blood sugar. A small study found that taking a 15-minute walk 3-times a day (after breakfast, lunch, and dinner) improved blood sugar levels more than taking a 45-minute walk at any other point during the day. 4. Eases Joint Pain Walking can help protect the joints, including your knees and hips. Walking helps lubricate and strengthen the muscles that support the joints. Walking may also provide benefits for people living with arthritis, such as reducing pain. Walking 5 to 6 miles a week may also help prevent arthritis. 5. Boosts Immune System Walking may also reduce your risk for developing a cold or the flu. One study tracked 1,000 adults during the flu season. Those who walked at a moderate pace for 30 to 45 minutes a day had 43 percent fewer sick days and fewer upper respiratory tract infections overall. Their symptoms were also lessened even if they did get sick as compared to adults in the study who were sedentary. During this restrictive time for everyone, try to get in a daily walk to experience some of these benefits. No excuses – walking can be done indoors or out!
24 April 2020 | Grace&Glory
1. May Reduce Inflammation Inflammation is a natural reaction your body produces in response to harm, such as bacteria, viruses or even your nervous system’s stress response. Left unchecked, inflammation can lead to chronic disease. Many diseases appear to have a direct relationship with long-term inflammation, including inflammatory bowel disease, arthritis and autoimmune diseases. For people with inflammatory diseases, controlling and managing inflammation is key to living a high quality of life and keeping symptoms at bay. Meditation is an excellent tool people can use to help manage this condition. A few studies found that mindfulness programs led to reduced inflammation markers in participants from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The study examined people with chronic inflammatory conditions and compared MBSR training with a basic health education program. The researchers found participants who underwent the MBSR training had lower post-stress inflammation responses than the group that didn’t meditate. Meditation may also reduce inflammation in people without inflammatory conditions. UCLA found that participants of a three-month yoga and meditation retreat had lower inflammation levels in their bodies. 2. Relieves Stress and Anxiety As a mind-body intervention, meditation also has benefits for mental and emotional well-being. Because the mind and body are so interconnected, physical stress can cause emotional stress and vice versa. Meditation appears to be an effective method for calming our physical, spiritual and mental state of mind. A 2018 study from New York University and Virginia Tech found that meditating for just 13- minutes a day reduced anxiety levels and negative moods in participants over eight weeks. The researchers concluded that even brief meditation sessions, when performed over a multi-week period, have benefits for anxiety and mood similar to longer-duration meditation sessions. Meditation may also benefit people with anxiety disorders, as one 2016 study published in Psychiatry Research found. Seventy patients with generalized anxiety disorder underwent either an 8-week MBSR training program or a control intervention. Researchers found that the group who had received the meditation training had significantly reduced stress scores as well as lower levels of stress hormones compared to the non-meditators. 3. Help Alleviate Pain For people with chronic illness, meditation may provide a natural way to cope. Several studies have looked at how meditation can help reduce symptoms of various diseases, including self-reported pain. Because pain is a subjective experience, it’s usually difficult for researchers to quantify how meditation might reduce pain. Researchers from Wake Forest University in North Carolina looked into the relationship between meditation and pain by examining the study participants’ brains. The researchers compared pain responses in the participants’ brains before and after undergoing meditation training. After just 4 days of meditation training, the participants experienced a 40 percent drop in pain intensity compared to their pre-meditation pain levels. 4. Improves Memory and Concentration Today’s fast-paced world is leading to a collective drop in attention span, with many people feeling distracted by social media and multitasking. To help improve attention span and increase memory retention, mental disciplines like meditation may be beneficial. Several studies have looked at what effect meditation has on working memory and concentration. In workplace, researchers from the University of Washington in Seattle examined the effects of mindfulness meditation training on human resources staff. Researchers divided the participants into three groups, with one group receiving 8-weeks of meditation training, one group receiving relaxation training and another group receiving no training. At the end of the 8-weeks, the meditation group demonstrated not only lower stress levels but also an improved ability to remember and stay focused on their tasks longer. Even brief spurts of meditation may be enough to improve your memory and concentration. The same Wake Forest University researchers who examined the benefits of meditation for pain looked at what effect the same 4-day meditation training had on attention span. Whether it be during a pandemic or any other time in your life, taking time for yourself to just walk and mediate can be very beneficial to your well-being.
He Is Risen ... Matthew 28:1-6 (NIV) 1
After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb.
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There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it.
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His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow.
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The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men.
The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 5
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He is not here; He has risen, just as He said. Come and see the place where He lay.
Philippians 2:9-11 (KJV) Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
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That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 10
And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
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26 April 2020 | Grace&Glory
